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Sarah Dugas
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How to Become a Licensed Cosmetologist

Compass Career College Comsology studentsThe popularity of social media—as entertainment, as a sector of marketing and sales, as a social and cultural movement —has created a lot of expectations for people to always look their best. Behind that expectation, there’s become a devotion to the beauty industry and all of its products and services. It is a 532-billion industry that’s growing significantly each year around the world—thanks to brand influencers and ambassadors.

 

This has created more demand for cosmetologists, estheticians, and manicurists within the field. According to U.S. News and World Report, Hairdressers rank #6 for Jobs Without a College Degree. Today, the role of the Hairdresser has expanded to that of a Cosmetologist, and students often train in multiple fields, including the obvious hair design, hair cut, and chemical and color processes, as well as the less evident esthetician and nail services.

 

What does it take to begin your career in this field? Have you met all the prerequisites? Compass Career College breaks down the steps to become a Licensed Cosmetologist in our all-new blog!

Meet Basic Age and Educational Requirements.

Many Cosmetology programs, including Compass’ own, require students to be at least 16 years of age with a High School Diploma or G.E.D. This will show CCC that you’re ready to tackle the tough process of getting through our comprehensive program. The requirements allow interested parties to get a head-start on their career, if they so choose.

Enroll in a Cosmetology School, Like Compass!

Next, you’ll have to get the ball rolling on your education, and CCC can help you do just that! Our admission process calls for a valid I.D., social security card, copy of your diploma or G.E.D., shot records, and academic transcripts. If you’re in need of financial aid, you’ll also have to complete Entrance Counseling and a Master Promissory Note. See? We’re definitely not as arduous as many university’s enrollment processes.

Complete Your Cosmetology School Program.

The next step in the process is, perhaps, the most obvious. You have to complete Cosmetology School! Easier said than done, students will be required to finish 1500-hours of course curriculum before taking the State Licensing Exam. By pursuing our required hours Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 4 PM, students are projected to finish the program within approximately 12 months, or one year. You should anticipate many lectures, exams, and hours of hands-on practice— so, it’s best to begin our program with the expectation of a heavy workload.

Take Your State Licensing Exam.

All 50 states—Louisiana included— require Cosmetology graduates to take and pass a state licensing examination. Each licensing applicant has to pass a theoretical exam of written questions and a practical test in cosmetology. Our program at CCC prepares you for both with confidence and provides the tools and preparation materials necessary to pass with flying colors. Afterward, you may seamlessly move onto other specializations and training before searching for your first job within the field! 

Locate a Rewarding Job in Your Field.

The final step in the process is the reason you started your journey in the first place! Now, it’s time to find the perfect job to compliment your strengths and encourage the growth of all your brand-new skills. After graduating, you can find work in a beauty salon, a barbershop, spa, retail beauty supply location, or nursing and residential care home. Applying for a position as a Cosmetologist is much like applying for any other job: you'll need to write your resume and cover letter and actively seek position openings in the job of your choice.

 

Ready to get started? Visit our Cosmetology page to learn more about beginning your career!

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